From the vibrant yachting scene of Argentina emerged Nautivela Shipyard, a name synonymous with fast, comfortable, and safe sailing yachts. Founded by Percy Sly in 1970, the shipyard quickly established itself as a leader in the Argentine market, leaving an indelible mark with its distinctive "ROY" series of sailboats before ceasing new boat construction in 1991.
The Origin Story
Nautivela Shipyard began its journey in 1970 under the vision of Percy Sly. While details about Sly's specific background prior to founding Nautivela are not extensively documented in public records, his creation of the shipyard and its rapid ascent suggests a deep understanding of boat building and the desires of the sailing community. The company's core motivation was to construct "fast sailing pleasure" vessels that prioritized "maximum comfort and safety," a philosophy that resonated strongly with Argentine yachtsmen.
Nautivela's initial offerings set the tone for its future success, laying the groundwork for a reputation built on performance and thoughtful design.
History and Evolution
Throughout its operational period from 1970 to 1991, Nautivela Shipyard carved out a significant niche in the South American marine industry. The company's rise to prominence as a leader in the Argentine market for sailing yacht construction underscored its ability to deliver on its promise of quality and performance.
While specific milestones like transitions to new materials or major corporate shifts are not widely detailed, the consistent production of their "ROY" series indicates a steady evolution in their boat designs and potentially their construction techniques over two decades. The fact that the shipyard became a market leader suggests successful adaptation and innovation within the constraints of the time and region.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Nautivela Shipyard cultivated a reputation for building sailboats that expertly balanced speed with the essential elements of comfort and safety for pleasure cruising. Their vessels were designed to offer an exhilarating sailing experience without compromising the liveability and security that yacht owners desire. This combination allowed them to cater to a wide range of sailors, from those seeking spirited performance on the racecourse to families desiring a stable and comfortable platform for extended voyages.
The "ROY" series became the signature of Nautivela, indicating a cohesive design language across their models. While specific naval architects beyond Percy Sly himself are not frequently cited in general overviews, it is common for founders of such shipyards to also be the principal designers, or to collaborate with local talent. The success of the ROY line suggests a well-defined and appealing design philosophy.
Iconic Models and Legacy
The most significant and successful models in Nautivela's history belong to the "ROY" series. This line encompassed a range of sizes, including the ROY 20, ROY 26, ROY 32, ROY 38, and ROY 43. These numerical designations likely referred to the boats' length in feet, a common practice in yacht nomenclature.
The prevalence of these models in the Argentine sailing community, as evidenced by the shipyard's market leadership, indicates their popularity and enduring appeal. The ROY 32, for example, is still referenced in today's second-hand market, attesting to its lasting presence and the quality of its construction. The ROY series represented Nautivela's commitment to providing a diverse range of yachts, each designed to embody the core tenets of speed, comfort, and safety.
While the primary shipyard ceased operations in 1991, the legacy of Nautivela and the Sly family appears to have continued in the marine industry in Argentina. As recently as 2015, a "Nautivela" operating in Buenos Aires, Argentina, with a contact named Roy Sly, offered services such as boat maintenance, painting, and optimization for cruising and racing, suggesting a continuation of expertise and service related to the original brand or its spirit.
The Builder Today
Nautivela Shipyard, in its original form as a builder of new sailboats, concluded its operations in 1991. However, the influence and craftsmanship of the company's creations, particularly the ROY series, continue to be appreciated by boat owners in Argentina. The presence of Nautivela-branded marine services, possibly run by a descendant like Roy Sly, points to an ongoing connection to the original legacy of quality and dedication to sailing.
The boats built by Nautivela appeal to sailors who value a blend of performance and practicality. The ownership experience likely involves being part of a community that recognizes and appreciates these classic Argentine-built yachts, a testament to Percy Sly's enduring contribution to the marine industry.
